This week a Network Rail spokesperson told the Mail: “Since the closure of Little Bowden level crossing we have been working closely with Leicestershire County Council to find practical short and long term solutions to allow pedestrians to cross safely.

“While in the long term we aim to build a footbridge, we have been investigating the possibility of moving the strike-points on the track which are activated by the passing of trains.

“This will reduce the variation in waiting time at the crossing, which was the key reason for closing the crossing.”

The spokesman added that Network Rail hoped to have the work completed – and the crossing reopened – by Christmas.

“We would again like to thank the community in Little Bowden for their patience” the spokesman said. “We will provide a further update as soon as possible.”